Zumbathon to raise money for Norwich’s Grace Matthews

Three hours of non-stop Zumba will raise money for a Norwich youngster battling back from meningitis.

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Grace Matthews, of Mile Cross, was diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia – or meningitis B – in January 2011 and had to have both her legs, all the fingers on her left hand, and half the palm on her right hand amputated.

On Saturday, Norwich Zumba instructor Sarah Chow will lead a three-hour work out to raise money for Grace.

The little girl, who is almost six years old, is set to attend while her mother Vicky and her aunts are planning to take part in the Zumbathon.

Mrs Matthews said any funds raised would help meet her daughter’s immediate and future needs.

She said: “Primarily, the family’s aim is for Grace to have the most comfortable and practical prosthetic legs and any new machinery or equipment required.

“For every different heel height, Grace will need a different pair of legs. She keeps asking for these beautiful, sparkly high-heeled princess shoes. We’ve been putting her off for a while now, as each pair of legs only lasts about six months at her age. As she’s getting more confident on her legs, those ‘dream heels’ are getting closer.

“Any contribution you can make would be so very much appreciated, whether it’s funds or time – all the support we get is very important to us and to raise awareness of meningitis.

“Surely, after three hours of continuous Zumba, it must be worth a small donation?”

Recruitment agency Office Angels has donated goodie bags for the event while City of Norwich School has provided its sports hall for free.

Anyone can join in with the Zumbathon and are asked to either collect sponsorship or make a donation. The event begins at 10am on Saturday at the CNS sports hall, Eaton Road, Norwich, and will end at 1pm.

To find out more or to get an application form, contact Sarah Chow on 07717 723713 or email chowzumba@hotmail.co.uk